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Attention Green Thumbs: Protect your joints
Here are some tips for safer gardening.
Check your body mechanics
Bend at the knees to lift soil bags. Hold the item close to your body to reduce the load. Keep your work close to you to avoid reaching too far. Vary your position to avoid fatigue.
Check your tools
Gardening tools have changed over the years. Larger handles and lighter equipment have been proven to be easier on your joints. Long handled weeders, shovels and rakes with angled handles help you avoid poor posture and reduce stress on your joints.Try equipment in the store before you buy it.
Stretch
It’s tempting to just get out there as soon as the sun shines! But, be sure to stretch your joints before you get started. Talk to your health-care provider to learn good stretches for you.
Equipment can help
Thumb splints can protect your joints. Wrist splints can keep your wrist in a good position. Or, there are combination splints. Talk to your health-care provider for more information.
Take a break! Gardening is great for our minds and bodies, but don’t overdo it. Vary your tasks to avoid repetition and stop to admire your work to give yourself a rest.
Be sun safe! Wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen when spending time in your garden
For more, visit health.sunnybrook.ca
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